Charity fundraiser dies from MND

Tributes have been paid to a business man who was recognised for his "unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around him".

Nick Broady, former chair of the Pied Piper Appeal, the 4Ed charity and the Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation, died after being diagnosed with the degenerative condition Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

Mr Broady was awarded an honorary fellowship from the University of Gloucestershire in November for his commitment to charitable work across the county.

Gloucester Rugby chairman and owner, Martin St Quinton said: "Nick was one of life's truly good people and we are all heartbroken by his passing."

"He was kind, generous, and incredibly selfless, with an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around him," he added.

Gloucester Rugby said Mr Broady grew up in Matson and Tredworth and had been a "devoted" Gloucester rugby fan for more than 30 years.

He had worked as managing director of the Avenue Group, a Gloucester-based dealership which specialises in high-prestige vehicles.

Alongside his business ventures, Mr Broady dedicated his time to charity work, including becoming chair of Gloucestershire children's charity, the Pied Piper Appeal, in 2013.

In 2023, he was appointed chair of the Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation, before assuming the role of chair of the 4Ed charity, which supports families affected by MND.

Gloucester Rugby said less than a year into that role, Mr Broady himself was diagnosed with the disease.

He "reluctantly" stepped down from the role in November "due to the devastating effects" of his condition, it added.

Gloucestershire children's charity, The Pied Piper Appeal, said it was "heartbroken" to hear of Mr Broady's passing, and said he had an "infectious desire to do good".

Former chair of the charity and friend of forty years, Roger Head OBE, said Mr Broady was "instrumental in bringing new ideas and initiatives" and had enhanced and improved "the lives of many".

Meanwhile, the High Sheriff of Gloucestershire and a trustee of the charity, Julie Kent, said Mr Broady "was an unstoppable force to volunteer with who wouldn't ask you to do anything he wouldn't do himself".

Disabled children's Community Interest Company, C2I - Chapter One, said Mr Broady had been a support and "believed" in the organisation "from the moment" it opened its doors.

"When we were just finding our feet at Piper Centre, Nick was there. Quietly. Constantly. No fuss. No questions asked. Just showing up. Every time," it said.

"Our thoughts are with Nick's family, friends, and everyone who loved him.

"The impact he's had on us, on Chapter One, and on so many lives will never be forgotten. You will always be part of our story. Always part of us."

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